No one likes to lose things, on that all can agree.
As for putting a 'safety net' on PvM encounters, with that I do not agree. There are two easy access zones now just for zero risk interaction, Avendale and Frostdale.
Making wpns drop as they are now, instead of into loot bag, I have no objection to that.
If I were to guess, its is the way it is now because of the script to prevent a toon from requiping a disarmed wpn without leaving combat and resting.
Lesson here for Prince Portly

Be aware of where your going, and your toons weaknesses, plan accordianly. Grab an IA kama and quick slot it for danger zones.